Saudi Arabia travel advice

Risk level

Safety and security

Behaviour in public and on social media

Saudi law prohibits:

• criticizing the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the royal family, its institutions, and Islam
• provoking, mocking or questioning public order, religious values, and public morals
• expressing support for any banned groups or organizations considered by Saudi authorities to practice violence

These prohibitions extend to your online activity, including what you post, share or like on social media.

If the Saudi authorities accuse you of such an offence or place you under investigation, you could face a travel ban until the conclusion of the proceedings, which could last several months or years. The legal processes around national security cases can be complex and slow.

Saudi nationals and foreigners have been sentenced to lengthy jail sentences for social media activities, including posts or simple “likes”. This included social media activity that took place outside Saudi Arabia and sometimes many years in the past.

Borders

Border with Yemen

Between 2015 and 2022, missiles, drones and other projectiles were used by terrorists in Yemen and the international coalition conducting strikes on terrorist-controlled areas in Yemen, including near the border with Saudi Arabia.

During that period, terrorist attacks also targeted cities in Saudi Arabia, civilian infrastructure, airports, military bases and energy facilities. Military debris from interceptions also posed a security risk. A 2022 U.N.-brokered truce ended cross-border strikes from Yemen, but the terrorist group responsible for the attacks has threatened to resume strikes on Saudi Arabia.

Saudi border authorities regularly patrol along the border with Yemen to dismantle criminal networks involved in human, narcotics and arms trafficking. Security operations near the border periodically lead to violent spillovers, including clashes with Saudi authorities.

Due to the ongoing conflicts and instability along the border, airports in the area may be closed with little or no notice. Verify your travel plans before leaving for the airport.

Exercise extreme caution if you are travelling to or within other parts of southwestern Saudi Arabia.

Northern Saudi border

Saudi authorities have declared “out of bounds” zones within 20 km of:

• the border with Iraq
• the towns of Hafr al Batin and Khafji in Eastern Province

If you enter these zones without proper authorization, even inadvertently, you face severe penalties, including imprisonment and fines.

You should only cross the border at designated and official land border crossing points, which are clearly identified.

Governorate of Al Qatif

In the past, sectarian tensions led to violent clashes between Saudi security forces and Shia militant groups, especially around the cities of Al Awamiyah and Al Musawara. While there have been no major security incidents since 2020, tensions persist and security forces maintain a heightened presence.

Missile strikes and drones

Missiles and drones launched by terrorist entities in Yemen toward Israel often transit Saudi airspace. Most of these have been intercepted and destroyed, but the projectiles and military debris pose a risk in Saudi Arabia, the Red Sea and the Persian Gulf. Although a UN-brokered truce was announced in 2022, drone attacks launched from Yemen may still occur near the Saudi border. Previous attacks have targeted Riyadh, Abha, Yanbu and parts of Eastern Province. The possibility of further attacks from Yemen on cities and infrastructure in Saudi Arabia cannot be ruled out.

If you encounter debris or fragments:

• move away from them immediately
• contact local authorities

Terrorism

There is a threat of terrorism throughout the country.

Saudi authorities conduct counter-terrorism operations and have heightened security measures, but attacks cannot be ruled out. Terrorists have targeted Saudi and foreign interests, such as government buildings, military installations, energy facilities and diplomatic missions.

Targets could also include:

• schools, including universities
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.

Be particularly vigilant during:

• sporting events
• religious holidays
• public celebrations

Terrorists have used such occasions to mount attacks.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations are illegal and therefore rare in Saudi Arabia. In the past, demonstrations and civil unrest occurred in predominantly Shia communities in the Al Qatif governorate of Eastern Province, due to longstanding sectarian tensions. In Saudi Arabia, security forces react quickly to prevent demonstrations from forming or gathering momentum. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Hajj

The next Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca is expected to take place from May 24 to 29, 2026. Traffic in Mecca peaks during Eid al-Adha, which occurs during Hajj.

Religious sites during Hajj

There are safety risks at religious sites due to overcrowding. Pilgrims have been killed or injured in stampedes. The sites are far from the Embassy of Canada to Saudi Arabia, in Riyadh. Contact your travel agent for information on available services and support.

Crime

The crime rate is low. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs, especially in crowded areas and at holy sites.

• Do not show signs of affluence
• Keep your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, in a secure place

Roads

Road conditions

Roads in rural areas are less developed, and driving can be dangerous due to:

• unpaved or uneven surfaces
• insufficient lighting
• lack of maintenance
• camel crossings
• poorly maintained vehicles

Driving habits

Speeding is common and drivers often disregard traffic laws, including road markings. Fatal car accidents are frequent.

If you’re involved in an accident:

• immediately contact the police and Najm
• do not leave the scene or move your car until the police arrive
• do not make any financial arrangements with the other drivers

Reporting a car accident in Saudi Arabia – Najm

In a traffic accident resulting in personal injury, regardless of fault, drivers may be held for several days until responsibility is determined and restitution is made. If severe injuries or death occur, compensation may need to be paid to the victim’s family for the injuries or loss of life.

Public transportation

Taxis

Only use pre-arranged and licensed taxis or ride-sharing services. Avoid shared or unregistered taxis.

Marine transportation

Exercise caution if travelling by sea, including for recreational purposes in Red Sea waters close to Yemen and in the Persian Gulf, particularly around the disputed islands of Abu Musa and Tunbs. Iran and the United Arab Emirates each claim sovereignty over the islands.

Pirate attacks occur in coastal waters and, in some cases, farther out at sea. Travellers should take appropriate precautions.

Live piracy report – International Maritime Bureau Piracy Reporting Centre

Air travel

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Entry and exit requirements

The authorities of a country or territory decide who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from Saudi authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.

Passport

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you're travelling with.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country's entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Saudi Arabia.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, verify this information with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

You should also be aware that current systems used by some countries and travel companies may not recognize the “X” gender identifier. You may still be asked to provide your sex/gender information as either male or female when travelling.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, verify this information with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics
• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports and other travel documents

Visas

Tourist visa: required 
Business visa: required 
Student visa: required 
Work visa: required

Overstaying your visa will result in heavy fines and you will be unable to exit the country until the fine has been paid.

Tourist visa

You can obtain a tourist visa online before your trip or upon arrival at the airport. The tourist visa allows for multiple entries and is valid for one year. You can stay up to a maximum of 90 days in total per year. Muslim tourists can perform Umrah with any type of visa, but a specific visa is required to perform Hajj.

Apply for a tourist visa online – Visit Saudi Arabia

Pilgrimage

You must present a valid Hajj visa if you travel to Saudi Arabia for the Hajj. This visa is only valid for travel to Jeddah, Mecca and Medina, and for travel between these cities. Non-Muslims are forbidden from travelling to the holy city of Mecca. Pilgrims performing Hajj must make arrangements on a dedicated online platform.

Women of all ages may travel without a mahram (male guardian, such as a brother, father or husband) to perform Hajj or Umrah. A notarized letter of no objection from the mahram is no longer required.

In the period preceding and during the Hajj pilgrimage, Muslim visitors require a valid Hajj visa to board flights to Jeddah, Medina and Taif. Muslims with business or tourist visas may enter Saudi Arabia through any other entry point.

Useful links

• Foreign representatives in Canada
• Visit Saudi – Saudi Tourism Authority
• Nusuk Hajj Platform – Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah

Entry and exit visas

Holders of a resident permit

If you have a resident permit (iqama), you can't leave the country without obtaining an exit visa or exit/re-entry visa from the Saudi Ministry of Interior if you intend to return to Saudi Arabia. You must have your sponsor's approval to obtain these visas.

Single-entry visa

Single-entry visa holders don't need an exit visa.

Outstanding fees for dependents

Prior to exit, expatriates who have outstanding fees for dependents may be required to pay at the point of exit prior to departure if they have an exit/re-entry visa, or on renewal of their exit/re-entry visa.

Regional travel

Canadians have been denied entry into Saudi Arabia because their passports bore an Israeli visa, an Israeli border stamp or an Egyptian or Jordanian border stamp issued by an office bordering Israel. Such a stamp would indicate the traveller visited Israel prior to coming to Saudi Arabia.

Health entry and stay requirements

You must provide a human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) test certificate and proof of a criminal background check if you intend to work in Saudi Arabia.

Children and travel

Learn about travelling with children.

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Health

Routine vaccines

Make sure your routine vaccinations are up-to-date before you travel, no matter where you’re going.

These may include vaccines for measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio, varicella (chickenpox), meningococcal disease, seasonal flu, and others.

Provincial and Territorial Immunization Information

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

When travelling in this destination, you might be at risk for diseases that can be prevented with vaccines or medications. Talk to a travel health care provider about which ones are right for you based on your travel plans.

The highlights below will also tell you if your destination may require that vaccine for entering or exiting.

Safe food and water precautions

Eating or drinking unsafe food or water, or swimming in contaminated water can make you sick while travelling. Take precautions by following these tips:

• Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it (only eat food that is prepared safely)
• Avoid, if possible, getting water in your eyes, mouth, or nose when swimming in freshwater (like streams, lakes, or canals), especially after heavy rain or flooding - the water might look clean but can still be contaminated 
• Don’t swallow water when bathing, showering, swimming in pools, or using hot tubs 

Eat and drink safely abroad

Tick and insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by bites from infected ticks and insects like mosquitoes, fleas, or flies. Before you travel, find out what types of ticks or insects are in the area, when they’re most active, and what diseases they can spread.

To protect yourself from bites:

• use an approved bug spray (insect repellent) on exposed skin
• wear light-coloured, loose clothing made of tightly woven materials like nylon or polyester
• wear socks and closed-toe shoes
• sleep under mosquito netting if you’re outdoors or staying in places that aren’t fully enclosed
• do a full body tick check on yourself, your children, your gear, and any pets you’re travelling with when you return from outdoor activities

Insect bite and pest prevention
Personal insect repellents

Animal precautions

Some infections can spread directly from animals to people, like rabies or bird flu (avian influenza). Others don’t spread directly from animals but can infect people who visit areas animals have contaminated with their droppings or body fluids.

Certain activities can increase your chances of coming into contact with animals, their droppings, or their body fluids, like:

• travelling in rural or forested areas
• camping, hiking, or visiting caves
• visiting places where live animals are sold or killed for food, like wet markets

To reduce your risk of getting sick:

• avoid contact with animals like stray dogs, livestock (such as pigs and cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats.
• stay away from places where animal waste can build up, such as caves
• avoid eating undercooked meat

Make sure to closely watch children; they are more likely to try to touch animals.

Person-to-person infections

When travelling, you can reduce your risk of getting or spreading respiratory infections, like the flu or COVID-19, by:

• staying at your accommodation and limiting contact with others if you’re sick
• wearing a well-fitting mask, especially: 
  
  • if you’re sick and need to be around others 
  • when you’re at large indoor events or in crowded settings, like sporting events, concerts, and airports
• cleaning your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or using hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol
• covering your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow, not your hands

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Clean your hands to help reduce the spread of infectious diseases
Respiratory infectious diseases: How to reduce the spread with personal protective measures

To lower your risk of getting sexually transmissible infections (STIs), HIV, and mpox, you can:

• get vaccinated against mpox if you’re eligible
• practise safer sex methods
  • use barrier protection during sexual activity, like condoms and dental dams.

Mpox vaccines
Sexual health and travel
HIV and AIDS: Travel health advice

Medication

Some prescription medications may not be available in Saudi Arabia. 

If you take prescription medications, you’re responsible for determining their legality in Saudi Arabia. 

The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) strictly regulates controlled drugs containing narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances. If Saudi authorities consider your medication a controlled substance, you must obtain a permit online before entering and/or leaving the country. Failure to do so may result in arrest and prosecution. You can check on the SFDA’s website if your medication is considered controlled in Saudi Arabia.

• Bring enough medication for your stay 
• Always keep your medication in the original container and carry a copy of your prescriptions 
• Pack your medication in your carry-on luggage 

Useful links

• Travelling with medication
• Drugs List – Saudi Food and Drug Authority
• Requesting a permit for controlled substances – Saudi Food and Drug Authority

Medical services and facilities

Modern medical care is available in large cities, and adequate medical services are available in smaller cities. Immediate cash payment may be required.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Health and safety outside Canada

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

Laws and culture

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.

Legal process

Saudi Arabia’s judicial system is based on Sharia (Islamic law). Legal proceedings can be slow, complex, and may lack the transparency typically expected in Canada. Individuals suspected of a crime, or even witnesses, can be detained for extended periods without access to legal counsel or consular support. When access is granted, it may be limited and at the discretion of Saudi authorities. It is important to seek legal assistance as early as possible.

Authorities may impose exit bans on individuals involved in legal proceedings or investigations, or those with unpaid debts. In some cases, Saudi citizens can also request exit bans against others.

Drugs and alcohol

Penalties for the importation, manufacturing, possession and consumption of alcohol, illegal narcotics and drugs (including cannabis) or products containing their ingredients are severe.

Saudi authorities practice zero tolerance and make no distinction between alcohol and soft or hard drugs. Your bags will be screened on arrival. Drug offenders may be sentenced to corporal punishment or death.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Religious proselytism

It's illegal to:

• engage in religious proselytizing
• criticize Islam
• practise any religion other than Islam in public spaces

Be cautious when discussing religious issues.

Ramadan

In 2026, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around February 17.

In public, between sunrise and sunset, be discreet when:

• drinking
• eating
• smoking

Dress and behaviour

Saudi Arabia’s customs, laws, and regulations closely adhere to Islamic practices and beliefs. You should dress conservatively, behave discreetly, and respect religious and social traditions to avoid offending local sensitivities, especially in the holy cities of Mecca and Medina and in mosques.

Both men and women should dress modestly in public, avoiding tight-fitting clothing or items with language or images that may be considered culturally offensive. Shoulders and knees should be covered. Women who don’t adhere to local dress standards may attract unwanted attention.

In Saudi Arabia, cultural norms and the Public Decorum Charter encourage modest dress. Women are generally expected to cover their arms and legs. Clothing with profanity, offensive images, or symbols promoting racism, drugs or obscenity is prohibited in public.

Useful links

• Advice for women travellers
• Public Decorum Charter – Ministry of Tourism of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Public spaces

Avoid public displays of affection, such as holding hands.

Some restaurants have sections for men only and one for families where females can be served, including when unaccompanied.

2SLGBTQI+ persons

Saudi law criminalizes sexual acts and relationships between persons of the same sex.

Convicted 2SLGBTQI+ persons face:

• heavy fines
• jail sentences
• corporal punishments
• deportation
• the death penalty

2SLGBTQI+ persons could be detained based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics. They could also face charges such as:

• cross dressing
• gross indecency
• offence to public morals

Transgender people and cross-dressers face the same consequences as those convicted of homosexuality.

Public or online discussions related to sexual orientation or gender identity could be considered by Saudi authorities as provoking or questioning public order, religious values, and public morals.

2SLGBTQI+ persons should take into consideration the risks of travelling to Saudi Arabia.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Identification

Local authorities may ask you to show identification at any time.

• Carry identification documents, including your residency permit (iqama) or entry visa, at all times
• Leave your passport in a safe place and carry a photocopy for identification purposes

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in Saudi Arabia.

If local authorities consider you a citizen of Saudi Arabia, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.

Dual citizens

Common-law relationships

If you wish to reside in Saudi Arabia and are in a common-law relationship, you will be required to provide proof of marriage to register in the country.

Extramarital relations

Extramarital relations are illegal and subject to severe punishment, including the death penalty.

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Saudi Arabia.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Saudi Arabia by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Saudi Arabia to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

Useful links

• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• Children and travel
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

Pork-based products

It’s prohibited to import and consume pork-based products.

Photography

Photographing holy sites and sensitive installations is prohibited. This includes:

• military sites
• government buildings
• diplomatic missions

Seek permission before taking photos of individuals.

Imports and exports

Airport authorities inspect every package and may thoroughly examine all electronic devices entering or leaving Saudi Arabia. Pirated or explicit materials will be confiscated. You may be detained or deported if you don’t comply. If deported, you’ll be prohibited from re-entering Saudi Arabia.

The importation of items deemed contrary to Islamic principles, such as pornography, illegal narcotics, alcohol, and weapons, is strictly prohibited.

Work week

The work week is from Sunday to Thursday.

Driving

You must carry an International Driving Permit.

International Driving Permit

Automated ticketing system

Some Saudi cities have implemented an automated ticketing system. All fines issued through this system must be paid before leaving the country. Payment can be made at the airport during regular Saudi office hours.

Money

The currency of Saudi Arabia is the Saudi riyal (SAR).

Natural disasters and climate

Heat waves

Saudi Arabia faces extreme heat, especially in the summer between May and October, with temperatures well above 40°C.

Know the symptoms of dehydration and heatstroke, which can both be fatal.

During heat waves:

• stay hydrated
• avoid sun exposure
• monitor weather reports
• do not leave power banks or anything flammable in your vehicle

Sun and heat safety tips for travellers

Heavy rains

Although Saudi Arabia is one of the driest countries in the world, heavy rains occur occasionally between November and February and can cause major flooding. This can severely affect overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services.

• Exercise caution
• Monitor local media for the latest information
• Follow the advice of local authorities

Sandstorms and dust storms

The weather is very dry and hot from May to October. Sandstorms and dust storms are common in Saudi Arabia and usually occur during the summer months, especially in central and eastern provinces.

The shamal, a sand-laden wind from the northern deserts, occurs most frequently in early summer and can blow at significant speeds for days, creating difficult driving conditions. These storms can also cause respiratory problems, which can be fatal for some people.

If a sandstorm or a dust storm occurs:

• stay indoors
• keep your doors and windows closed
• be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
• monitor local media for the latest information

Air quality

Air quality in Saudi Arabia varies by region and season and can reach unhealthy levels, particularly in urban areas and during sandstorms and dust storms.

During periods of bad air quality:

• limit your outdoor activities
• monitor air quality levels
• keep your doors and windows closed
• follow the instructions of local authorities

Air pollution in Saudi Arabia – World Air Quality Index